Top Landing There is rotor in the top landing fields particularly in the first 200 yards behind
the wall. This is extremely dangerous for hang-gliders in winds above 18mph.
hang-gliders should use the Kingston top landing fields but should always be
prepared to be dropped 20 ft or more during approach. Land well back.
Paragliders should ideally land within 50m of the wall behind the stile.
Toward Swyre Head it is possible to top land in most fields if you find the wind
is dying on you. Beware, as you will almost certainly experience some degree
of rotor. Only use this option in emergencies.
Avoid landing in any cropped field or where animals are present.
Don't top land behind the rising ground to the west, due to rotor.
Bottom
Landing
The bottom landing field A slopes and can be difficult to get into on a modem
hang glider.
Beware of the power lines.
Paragliders can side land anywhere but ensure you have an into-wind beat and
watch out for badger sets etc. The bottom landing is directly out in front of
launch for paragliders.
Special
Rules
This site is normally closed for three days every fortnight during the pheasantshooting season (end October to end February). Dates are published in the
Wessex Club newsletter and on the club website.
Do not climb on the dry stone wall. Only cross at the stile behind take-off.
Do not over fly or top land in fields A and B when there are sheep in them.
Avoid flying over Smedmore House (see map) as the occupants are sensitive
about their privacy.
Ridge Runs,
XC
This site can be very thermic but, being close to the sea, height gains of more
than 1,000ft ATO are uncommon. It is possible to drop onto the Purbeck Hills
and run down to Swanage or from the Purbeck Ridge drop back toward
Studland. Be aware of Poole Harbour and Bournemouth ATZ.
From Swyre Head it is possible to fly out onto the sea cliffs and west toward
the tower or east onto St. Aldhelm’s Head. Both these adventures are quite
technical and should not be undertaken without some thought. Bottom landing
beneath the cliffs is very limited and changes in cliff angle along many
stretches of the cliff will produce areas of sink.
Flying
Generally
Despite the size of this site, it can become busy especially on light wind days
when separation is poor. Some pleasant evenings can also be had on this site
during the summer and sea breeze works well here. On rough days it can be a
good place to practice active flying.
APPI International